Cheesemaking Lamperček – Obrul

Lamperček – Obrul is a family dairy farm on the slopes of Pohorje above Slovenske Konjice and Zreče in northeastern Slovenia, in the area around Rogla, at around seven hundred metres above sea level. Pohorje is the broad wooded range that rises south of the Drava, with dark spruce forests, high bogs and meadows that are mown for hay or grazed by cattle, and its farms have a long tradition of making milk, butter and cheese. A small hill farm of this kind gives visitors a view of how that tradition continues in the modern day, with a family looking after its own cows, fields and dairy, and selling what it makes directly.

The farm is known for its yoghurts and cheeses, and has won awards for them. In small Slovene dairies the usual pattern is to make fresh cheeses and yoghurts in a variety of flavours as well as longer-aged cheeses, and the products are often flavoured with herbs, garlic, chives, chilli or other local ingredients. Because the milk comes from the farm's own animals and is processed soon after milking, the character of the cheese depends on the feed on the hillside pastures and on the care of the cheesemaker. The farm is part of the network of Slovenian farms that carry a quality mark for their local products, which help buyers find genuine farm food.

A visit gives some insight into the process. Where guests are welcomed, they can see the animals, learn how milk becomes cheese, taste several products and buy what they like. Because it is a working farm rather than a large visitor attraction, it is best to arrange a visit ahead of time, and to ask about the days when products are available. Many producers of this type also sell at weekly farmers' markets and in shops in the nearby towns, so it is worth asking at the local tourist information office where to find them.

The surroundings add to the interest. Rogla is a mountain resort with ski slopes, hiking and cycling routes, a zoo, a toboggan run and extensive forests, and the Pohorje bogs, lakes and viewpoints lie a short distance away. Other farms in the area offer organic produce and farm stays, so the region is a good one for those who want to taste local food.

The farm suits families, food lovers and anyone interested in rural life. Wear shoes suitable for a farmyard, ask before touching animals, and respect the farm's work routine. Summer and early autumn are the best times for a visit, when the pastures are green and the cows are outdoors.